Hi gang

I'm looking to install a Firestick No grnd plane Side mount antenna on a 2004 Bounder. I was planning on going thru the cabinet on yjr drivers side-- my question is what is the wall composition. I know the outer is fiberglass-- is there a space then the inner wall. Looking at the wall construction around the refrig --looks like the fiberglass is bonded to 3/4 plywood. If that is the case the firestick side mount won't work as the mounting bolts arre too short.

Any ideas before I go nuts with a drill and have me some new forced air vents.

Thanks
Bill

Your walls should be about 2" thick. Fiberglass then Styrofoam core and 1/4" wood with vinyl covering all bonded together. The front cap is JUST fiberglass so be careful and don't put it there.

You didn't mention year, make or model but the usual sidewall construction is a fiberglass composite bonded to a light (very thin) wood backing (typically luan plywood). This is laid over a skeleton frame (wood in older models, steel or aluminum in newer ones) and then the interior walls is applied on the back side. There will be insulation of some kind in between, typically a Styrofoam type in the sides but may be regular spun fiberglass wool near the front and rear caps. Some coaches use fiberglass wool throughout.

Your main concern is to avoid attempting to drill through where a frame member lies underneath. If you go out early in the morning you can often see where the skeleton frame lies underneath due to condensation on the wall over the frame. If it is a metal frame, a magnetic stud finder also works.

When I mounted one in a previous coach, I got longer bolts for the mount and bolted right through the two sides of the sidewall and placed large flat washers (fender washers) and nuts on the inside wall.

If you mount on the front cap area (including the side of the cap), it will be only one outer layer with no frame. Put a backing board of some kind on to provide support - 1/4" plywood will do.

had the same problem. went to hardware store n got a barrel nut and 1/4-20 stock to extend the main bolt. then used a construction screw for the lower one. worked great. dont foreget to check total higth before you start to drill.

I am going to do the same thing on our 2003 Southwind. Let me know the details when you get done. Many Thanks;

Please let me know how it comes out. Waiting to do the same to our coach. You cam PM to me if you like. Thanks again,
David

I also waiting to do the same on my 08 Pace Arrow.

Mine was prewired with CB antenna (at least I think that's what it was)...end was behind radio bundled with a little screwdriver...I don't use a CB, not sure the antenna would be any good...it's on roof over driver.

DR Bill'

How did it come out?, got a lot who would like to know......